Which level do I need? A1, A2, B1 and B2 explained
What the CEFR levels mean in real life, and which level each exam asks for.
6 min read
The CEFR in plain words
Dutch exams use the European framework for languages (CEFR, in Dutch ERK). The levels go from A1 (beginner) to C2 (near-native). For inburgering, only A1 to B2 matter.
| Level | In plain words | You can, for example… |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | Absolute basics | Say your name and where you live, understand very simple signs, answer "Hoe oud ben je?" |
| A2 | Survival Dutch | Make a doctor's appointment, understand a short letter from school, write a simple email to your neighbour, follow a slow, clear conversation about daily things |
| B1 | Independent user | Explain a problem to your landlord, understand the main points of a radio item or a work meeting, write a clear email to complain or ask for information, give your opinion with reasons |
| B2 | Confident user | Follow a lecture or a fast discussion, read newspaper articles, write a structured argument, give a short presentation |
The jump from A2 to B1 is big: texts get longer, speech gets faster, and you must explain and give reasons, not only exchange facts.
Which exam is at which level?
| Situation | Usual level | Exam |
|---|---|---|
| Moving to the Netherlands with an MVV (e.g. family migration) | A1 | Basisexamen inburgering buitenland, taken abroad at an embassy |
| Obliged under Wi2013 | A2 | DUO inburgering language exams + KNM |
| Wi2021 Z-route | Around A1 in class; A2 exams optional | Practical route via the municipality |
| Wi2021 B1-route, or downscaled | B1 (or A2 after downscaling) | Staatsexamen NT2 Programma I for B1 |
| Wi2021 onderwijsroute | B1 or B2 | Staatsexamen NT2 Programma I or Programma II |
| Study or work that asks for Dutch | Often B2 | Staatsexamen NT2 Programma II |
You do not need to pass Programma I before you can take Programma II.
Always confirm your required level in Mijn Inburgering, in your DUO letter, or in your PIP. Do not choose a level based on feeling — practising at the wrong level wastes time.
What about naturalisation (Dutch citizenship)?
For naturalisation you must show you have integrated, usually with an inburgering diploma or an NT2 diploma. The government has for several years planned to raise the language requirement for naturalisation from A2 to B1. This has been debated in parliament, but as far as we know it is not in force yet. Rules can change, so check the IND website before you plan your exams around citizenship. If you have the time, aiming for B1 is a safe choice.
How this app uses levels
Every question and task in this app is tagged A2 or B1. KNM is one exam for everyone, so KNM questions are written in simple (A2) Dutch. Pick your level at the top of Practice and Mock exams.